Finding the Right Fit for College

At CANI, we recognize that higher education is the foundation required to earn a livable wage, provide for your family and live a healthy productive life. But are all higher education institutions equal? Does it matter if you go to a for-profit or a non- profit school?

Last October, new rules were released by the Obama administration to strengthen federal student aid programs at for-profit, nonprofit and public institutions. The new rules are meant to protect students from aggressive or misleading recruiting practices among other things.

According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Web site, students who attend for-profit colleges account for only 11 percent of America's college students, but they represent 26 percent of all student loans and 43 percent of student loan defaults. It’s likely that those students—many of whom are low-income— will be hounded by creditors for the rest of their lives.

Indeed a college diploma can open many doors. Higher education can lead to a better paying job, which in turn can lead to an increased level of economic security. Education, income and basic needs create interdependent building blocks for personal and community prosperity.

If you are considering enrolling in higher education, here are a few points to consider:

• Choose a school with regional or national accreditation for the department or degree program you’re studying in;
• Beware of claims of high, i.e. 80% or 90% job placement after graduation. These numbers seem too good to be true and are generally not substantiated;
• Be sure the school offers qualified instructors with job experience or advanced degrees.

If you or a family member are interested in pursing higher education and need help get started, CANI is here to help. Contact our Family Development program, (260) 423-3546.